Cranberries are not the first things to come to mind when people decide to add fruits into their daily diets. People do not realize that cranberries have many great benefits, no matter what form they are consumed: whole, liquid, or dried.

Cranberries definitely have a bite. But that bite is an indication of some of the goodness contained therein. Cranberries contains: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, all the B vitamins including folic acid, calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, iron, and phosphorous. And thatâ€™s just the basics. One of the greatest benefits of cranberries is that they help prevent Urinary Tract Infection (UTI). Urinary Tract Infection is caused by bacteria that invade the urinary tract system, which consists of the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. UTI is more commonly developed in women than it is in men because women have shorter urinary tracts. Although most UTIs are not serious, they usually have severe symptoms, including pain or burning while urinating (Cornforth).

According to www.whfoods.com, it was commonly believed that the strong acidity of cranberries is what helps prevent UTI. However, it is actually their unusual proanthocyanidins (PAC) that are related to the prevention of the infections. The structure of the PACs blocks any bacteria that may stick o the urinary tract lining. Likewise, they can block bacteria in the stomach lining. Researchers believe that these berries can also aid in preventing stomach ulcers.

Recent studies show that consuming whole berries instead of cranberry juice or dried cranberries does a better job of protecting the cardiovascular system and the liver. This is because synergy in the cranberry nutrients is only found in the whole berry. Also, eating the berry whole has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer benefits. Their anti-cancer properties can help prevent breast, lung, colon, and prostate.

It is recommended that a person have at least 3-4 servings of berries a week, though it is encouraged that you have a serving each day. The vitamin C and dietary fiber found in cranberries would make for a very healthy diet.